Man Found With 90,000 Illegal DVD’s

 Posted on July 15, 2012 in Theft

Joseph Palmisano was receiving an awful lot of packages from Hong Kong. All these deliveries caught the attention of the Department of Homeland Security. It caught enough of their attention that they began an investigation that has resulted in Palmisano’s arrest.

Palmisano, of Bartlett, is currently being held on $25,000 bond.

According to Bartlett Police Commander Michael McGuigan, authorities found an estimated 90,000 DVD’s at Palmisano’s home. In an interview with WGN News, McGuigan said that there were boxes of DVD’s that went from the floor to the ceiling in both the garage and living room of the house. He described little pathways that Palmisano had made to walk through.

Prosecutors are alleging that the DVD’s are all pirated copies of movies that were made in Asia. They are accusing Palmisano of selling the DVD’s online, and claim he made $220,000 selling the illegal products. They claim that the DVD’s included films, HBO programs and other television shows.

Palmisano has been charged with unlawful use of unidentified sound, with bond set at $25,000. Illinois law says that if a person intentionally, or knowingly manufacturers or sells audio visual products for profit, it’s a class 4 felony. But the law also states that if the offense involves more than 100, but not exceeding 1000 unidentified sound recordings or more than 7 but not exceeding 65 unidentified audio visual recordings during any 180 day period the authorized fine is up to $100,000. If the offense involves more than 1,000 unidentified sound recordings or more than 65 unidentified audio visual recordings during any 180 day period the authorized fine is up to $250,000.

If you are arrested, ensure that you have the best defense possible. Consult with an experienced Chicago criminal defense attorney. Pirating movies and DVD’s may be common, but it is illegal. A criminal defense lawyer can help you through the legal process and towards the best possible outcome.